Monthly Archives:

Americans own more than 75 million cats, which means 30 – 37% of US households have at least one cat as a pet (2015 – 2016 APPA National Pet Owner Survey). Making a kitten a member of the family can be a breeze with a few helpful tips.

Kitten Proof Your Home

A kitten is curious and may get into things he isn’t supposed to be in. Make sure small items he can chew and risk choking on are picked up off the floor and put in a proper place out of reach. Keep all cabinets securely closed and check the home for house plants that could be dangerous to a cat. Loose cords should be tied back so he doesn’t trip over or chew them. Create a safe, quiet room where he can be put when unsupervised in the house or go when he feels overwhelmed.

Use a Cat Carrier

When adopting a kitten make sure to bring a cat carrier along. A cat carrier provides a safe place for him during the adoption transition and introduces him to a carrier at a young age. Make the carrier a part of his safe place by leaving the carrier in the safe room as a place to sleep and hide. As he is introduced to new rooms in the home take the carrier as a safe hiding place if something in the room spooks him. Taking him on frequent car rides in a Bergan® Comfort Carrier™, which can be secured in the vehicle with the Seat-Belt Loop™ for safety, can help make future travel and vet visits easier on him.

Litterbox Training

Cats have a natural instinct to bury their waste and should start to use the litterbox on their own. Keep the litterbox in the corner of his safe room so he always knows where to find it. Encourage him to use the litterbox by placing him in the box after meals and using his paw to dig in the litter.

Play

Playtime helps exercise a kitten’s body and mind, and will help to make him part of the family. When at home engage him in play by using a laser light or a toy securely attached to a plastic pole. When no one is home to play with him make sure he has toys he can bat around and interact with on his own. A Turbo Scratcher® allows him to spin the ball and doubles as a scratch pad.